AN appeal has been made in the hope of finding someone who will be able to help safeguard a striking mural in one of Bradford’s most well-known buildings. 

The Olive Grove Foundation, which was based in High Point, Westgate, the former headquarters of the Yorkshire Building Society (YBS) got in touch with the Telegraph & Argus as work is now underway to convert the buildings into apartments.

But, it’s hoped the piece of artwork, understood to be called ‘Bradford Old and New’ and the work of artist William Mitchell can be saved.

It showcases iconic Bradford buildings, including City Hall, the Wool Exchange and The Alhambra, as can be seen in the above image.

Muhammad Bhaiyat, from the charity, which works to help those affected by poverty, wars or natural disasters across the world, said it was commissioned by YBS for the building.

He said: “In the former executive reception area there is a large bronze sculpture of some of Bradford’s most iconic buildings.

“We are trying to save the artwork but have not had any joy in finding a sculptor or artist who will be able to remove it professionally.”

He said demolition teams are now stripping the building and added: “It would be a real shame to lose the artwork. 

“We would like to see it housed in a public place in Bradford, perhaps a Council building, community centre or the university/college.”

Mitchell died in January last year and many of his works, including the International Wool Secretariat in Ben Rhydding are listed. 

Some of his murals can also be seen inside Bradford’s Kirkgate Market and he also made a large mural for the former Bradford and Bingley headquarters.

Following his death, the Bradford Civic Society said it was hoped some of his work could be brought back into the public realm. 

Last year planning permission to convert High Point into 87 apartments was approved by Bradford Council.

Almost £3 million in funding was granted towards the scheme by West Yorkshire Combined Authority - awarded from a pot of cash set up to breath new life into Bradford’s heritage buildings.

The project is being carried out by Circus Development, and will see the building’s eight storeys converted to residential use.

A new glass entrance lobby would be added to the building and 422 square metres of commercial space will be created on the ground floor.

Work on the building - which has cemented itself as one of Bradford’s most divisive structures - began earlier this year.

Built in the 1970s, it dominates the city’s skyline and it’s expected the building’s re-development will cost around £9.4m. When the Combined Authority grant was approved last year it was said the project could be completed by early next year.

It will be the first part of the City Village scheme - a development of around 1,000 homes in the ‘top of town’ area of the city. 

The scheme will also involve the demolition of the Oastler Centre once the new Darley Street Market opens, and the construction of around 500 homes on that site.